Associate ProfessorLaura Gray

Laura Gray is Director of the Damion Drapac Centre for Equity in Health Professions Education at Deakin University and an educational leader, researcher and former Course Director of the Deakin Doctor of Medicine (MD) program.

Her career has spanned neuroscience, medical education and higher education leadership. After establishing a research background in foundational and clinical neuroscience, Laura moved increasingly into educational leadership, where she became interested in how institutions can better support participation, success and wellbeing for learners from a wide range of backgrounds and circumstances. This interest has shaped her subsequent work across curriculum reform, assessment innovation, student support and educational policy.

Laura played a central role in the establishment of the Damion Drapac Centre for Equity in Health Professions Education, helping to develop the original vision for the Centre and working with university, community and philanthropic partners to create a sustainable platform for scholarship, outreach and educational innovation. As Director, she leads initiatives focused on equity, inclusion and participation in health professions education, with a particular emphasis on translating research into practical change for learners, educators and institutions.

Prior to this role, Laura led the Deakin MD program through a period of significant transformation, including curriculum renewal, assessment reform and accreditation. She has also contributed to sector leadership through the establishment of the Disability-Inclusive Health Professions Education Alliance ANZ (DIHPEA), bringing together educators, researchers and professional staff to advance inclusive practice, scholarship and collaboration across the region.

Her work now brings together research, educational leadership and sector engagement to advance more equitable and socially accountable approaches to health professions education in Australia and internationally.